Lake Travis STEM Academy in Cedar Park

Posted: May 7, 2025

LTSA has been positive for two of our children, one who graduated last year.
LTSA is a positive, encouraging, accommodating school, where students with different temperaments and aspirations can thrive. Students are accepted for who they are, encouraged to dream big, and supported. LTSA provides customized curricula and flexibility that allow students to reach their personal goals. The staff are caring, warm, responsive, and supportive. ACC is nearby for students who want additional academic challenge. Weve had two high schoolers at LTSA who were accepted into multiple engineering programs with full-tuition scholarships and internships at prestigious companies with household names.

The leadership roles, hands-on STEM projects, and engineering internships our children were able to do at LTSA enhanced their college and scholarship applications. Both children were told in internship interviews that their experiences at LTSA made them stand out as a candidate at top employers. One child's internship and capstone project were very important to helping them get scholarships and paid summer internships before even entering college.

LTSAs flexible and supportive environment can help any child pursue their specific interests, needs, or goals. We have been a part of this school for 8 years, starting in 5th grade. As a small school and with the pandemic in the middle of that time, some programs and staff have changed; but what has not changed is the positive, encouraging, accommodating and flexible atmosphere. And the core group of teachers and staff from 10 years ago are still there today--because they believe in the school. The school, staff, and community are there to provide, support, encouragement, mentoring, and opportunities.

When you attend the school's project expos, you see that some students are doing very impressive work, while other students may be taking an easier path. Students are encouraged, not pushed. Internally motivated students can soar here. This school will do everything in their power to support your child: adjustments, administrative tasks, letters of recommendation, mentors, internships, extra help...you name it.

Our family highly recommends LTSA to families looking for a more flexible and lower-stress alternative to local competitive high schools. Whether your child aspires to attend UT Austin's engineering school or trade school, they will be respected and supported

Posted: May 7, 2025

Posted: August 12, 2024

LTSA is a great school. Our son was not a good fit at public school. He needed a small class size and boy has he grown since we started. The teachers know his strengths and interests and teach to them. The field trips are lots of fun and very often. The school also builds in time to connect with parents each month over coffee.

Posted: August 12, 2024

Posted: June 4, 2024

Lake Travis STEM Academy initially attracted us with its small class sizes and project-based learning, which seemed promising for our children, especially after the pandemic. However, over time, the school's shortcomings became increasingly evident. High teacher turnover led to inconsistent instruction, and communication from the school was often lacking. While the project-based approach fostered creativity, we were disappointed by the slow pace of academic progress and the lack of detailed feedback on our children's individual needs. Additionally, the school's promises regarding field trips and extracurricular activities often went unfulfilled - not only disappointing us, but our children. Despite some positive experiences, we ultimately felt that LTSA was not the right fit for our family and would encourage prospective parents to thoroughly research the school before enrolling.

Common parent concerns include: lack of individualized detail in report cards (often focusing on curriculum rather than student progress), the handling of competition in PE or the absence of PE at the elementary level, inconsistent discipline methods (including an emphasis on conflict avoidance to the detriment of addressing issues directly, overlooked bullying, and poor parent communication), dangerous playground and recess conflict, difficulty communicating and collaborating with teachers, the presence of underqualified teachers, and multi-grade classrooms hindering older students' on-grade level instruction.

It will likely be difficult for you as an incoming family to determine whether these issues have been resolved, as school leadership does not always provide accurate or relevant information. One approach would be to inquire about the number of teachers and staff, specifically their qualifications and experience. I would also ask about the class size for your childs grade, which extracurricular activities are actually happening currently, and to speak with 2-3 of the parents of currently enrolled students.

Posted: June 4, 2024

Posted: January 19, 2024

I've been extremely happy with LTSA for my middle and high school children. My oldest is graduating in May, there's no doubt that LTSA has prepared him for college and after. He has received a couple of large scholarship offers and acceptance into prestigious universities. My freshman is involved at school, loves the more challenging course work and leadership opportunities. My youngest is happy to attend school, and enjoys his classes. Students who are self motivated, curious, work hard, and enjoy learning are a good fit. The teachers are more like mentors, you can tell they enjoy their jobs and actually get to teach. LTSA is different than public school, that's why I send my children here. Others have mentioned bullying as a problem, my kids have NOT had that experience or mention it. If you're open to a unique education experience, that produces successful students and prepares them for the future, LTSA is your place.

Posted: January 19, 2024

Posted: January 18, 2024

LTSA has provided me with any and every resource I could ever need. With the frequent one on ones with the teachers, no question went unanswered. The dynamic learning experience that it provides makes learning approachable and fun. The frequent field trips, projects, and presentations are what really separate Lake Travis STEM Academy from the rest. My whole high school career has been spent at LTSA and not one regret has crossed my mind about my experience.

Posted: January 18, 2024

I am a senior soon to graduate here at LTSA. as long as I can remember I have had schooling issues and struggled to find a place I could fit in and thrive (I have ADHD, Autism, etc, so learning is harder) But as soon as my family and I found LTSA it just clicked. Unlike public school I'm not rotting my brain out sitting in class every day. We have engaging activities and cover interesting topics and I have learned infinitely more here than I would in public school. Not just from an education standpoint but also a life skills standpoint. The teachers try to connect with their students and share a special bond that could not be replaced. 100% recommend this school.

Posted: January 18, 2024

Nice school, nice teachers, nice students, and nice location

Posted: January 18, 2024

Posted: January 17, 2024

Lake Travis Stem Academy welcomed my son with open arms and open minds. They truly take the time every day to find an approach that engages and encourages the best version of himself.

Posted: January 17, 2024

Posted: January 16, 2024

I really like this school because of the nice community and helpful learning environment. All the teachers are nice and all your classmates are supportive. the class size is nice and small and that leaves time for more 1 on 1 learning which can help understanding. I love that there is no homework so i don't have to stay up till 1 am and then be tired the next day. But the one thing I disagree with is 4 days. My parents are both working which makes it difficult for them and I feel that we could be learning even more. But the accommodations for my concussion have been spectacular. The honors society here is also really fun to participate in and there is this thing called Big Buddy Little Buddy which allows teachers and parents to bond over coffee but also lets the middle schoolers and high schoolers bond with the elementary kids.

Posted: January 16, 2024

Lake travis stem academy is a very good school, the school offers chance for scholarships and teaches very well.

Posted: January 16, 2024

Posted: January 14, 2024

To start, most of the teachers and other staff are in no way qualified and have no degrees in the subjects they are teaching. There have been frequent instances of teachers not being present to teach their classes. Several teachers grade highly subjectively, for example taking points off for solving a problem with a method that is not preferred by them. Some of the classes don't teach what they are meant to, such as English/Humanities being integrated with History, but neither is adequately taught. There are also no electives, only mandatory creative courses. Overall, the STEM education offered is mediocre at best.

Next, there have been many issues regarding the transcripts. Many students have received incorrect information on their official transcripts, such as a wrong name or birthdate. The staff also lacks in responsiveness and communication in general.

Then, discipline is minimal for students in higher grades. Students have committed acts of physical violence with little to no consequences. Bullying is frequent, and while advocated against, no action is taken. Staff have demonstrated favoritism and used excuses on behalf of certain students to give less discipline.

In short, I highly advise against attending Lake Travis STEM Academy.

Posted: January 14, 2024

Posted: September 6, 2023

Our two boys have been attending LTSA for a year and a half now and we really love it. Our oldest always liked school, but our youngest dreaded school prior to starting LTSA. The small class sizes, hands-on learning and the ability to flex upper down with younger or older kids depending on how theyre doing with current subject matter work really make a big difference. We have been very happy.

Posted: September 6, 2023

I have two students at LTSA. We love this school. The teachers are fantastic. Love the community and that you really get to know one another. My kids like going to school again!!

Posted: September 6, 2023

Posted: August 25, 2023

The teachers here have been highly qualified individuals for the most part. One teacher who turned out to only seem highly qualified was dismissed after failing to live up to the standards of the school, but apart from that, weve been overall pleased with the quality of instruction provided.
Thoughtful and engaging lessons are planned and executed and the students are excited and receptive because of the relationships the teachers cultivate with them.
Having toured many schools, I do know that micro schools of this nature do not usually accept high needs students, since they do not have the resources a public school has. At any rate, the staff at LTSA does work with students and if that student has a therapist they are willing to collaborate as part of that childs team to help that child succeed at school, in the classroom and at recess. They do work at social emotional learning for all, they work on collaborative learning, team building, and mentoring. One form of assessment for mastery is observing students teaching younger students or guiding them along in an activity.
As for bullying, its sneaky. Ive been on both sides of this as a parent and sometimes consequences seem fair, and sometimes they dont feel fair. Sometimes the teachers see whats happening and a lot of times, because bullying is sneaky, it takes time for people to figure out whats going on.
We like this place for the community, the small class sizes, the emphasis on science, the math curriculum, and the planned connection between and across subjects. Ltsa has a homeschool co-op feel with lots of family time available with a no homework policy and shortened days and week. Because of the shortened school week students can use that time to work on a chosen skill, be it sports, the arts, volunteering or animal husbandry.

Posted: August 25, 2023

Posted: August 17, 2023

As the Academic Advisor at Lake Travis STEM Academy for the past six years, I am proud to offer an endorsement of the educational experience that our institution provides. I have had the distinct honor of witnessing firsthand the profound impact of our school's resolute commitment to maintaining high teaching standards, fostering innovative approaches to education, and prioritizing the holistic well-being of our students.
Over the years, I have personally observed how our distinctive project-based learning environment serves as a catalyst for student growth and development. Our teaching approach is not just about the transmission of knowledge; it's about igniting a lifelong passion for learning.
Central to our ethos is the commitment to cultivating a nurturing and supportive atmosphere that goes beyond academics. Our school prioritizes the emotional and social well-being of our students.
Yes, it's important to acknowledge that our commitment to these high teaching standards can also lead us to make difficult decisions when necessary. We believe that the educational experience is only as strong as the educators delivering it. As such, we hold our teaching staff to an elevated standard, ensuring that they not only possess subject expertise but also the capacity to provide the care and support our students deserve. Occasionally, this entails making challenging decisions, including the possibility of parting ways with teachers who may not meet our expectations. Throughout this process, we consider feedback from students, parents, and staff.
Lake Travis STEM Academy's commitment to student success extends even to situations that require tough choices. While we strive to cater to the diverse learning needs of our students, there may be instances where we realize that our school may not be the optimal fit for a particular student. We understand and respect that each student's educational journey is unique, and we humbly acknowledge that there are times when more specialized support is essential. As a private institution without a dedicated special education program, we place the well-being of our students at the forefront.
Our commitment to maintaining high teaching standards, nurturing innovation, and prioritizing the well-being of our students is at the heart of our mission. Whether through personalized learning experiences, fostering emotional growth, or even making challenging decisions.

Posted: July 18, 2023

I would homeschool my child before sending them to LTSA. Students at this school are permitted to be rude and disrespectful to teachers. Bullying is common . The administrators , while having good intentions, are not even degreed in education and are greatly lacking in the knowledge and experience needed to be effective . There are a notable number of children who have severe disabilities and emotional problems whose needs are ignored.
Direct communication between teachers and parents is rare. Everything goes through the pseudo administrators whose focus is to placate parents.

Posted: July 18, 2023

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Anderson Mill	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Austin	TX	1.7 mi
2	Midtown Commons at Crestview Station	Apartment Complex	Austin	TX	10.5 mi
3	Mill creek	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Salado	TX	38.7 mi
4	Spanish Oaks	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	41.7 mi
5	Evergreen Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	41.8 mi
6	Skipcha Mountain Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	42 mi
7	White Rock Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.1 mi
8	Timber Ridge Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.1 mi
9	Knights Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	42.6 mi
10	Savannah Heights	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.8 mi
11	Glenwood	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	43 mi
12	Copperas Cove	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	45.1 mi
13	Skyline Flats	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	46.7 mi
14	Heartwood Park	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	47.3 mi
15	Oak View	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Belton	TX	48.4 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Main street	Salado	TX	37.8 mi
2	Harker Heights	Harker Heights	TX	43.1 mi
3	Elms street	Killeen	TX	43.7 mi
4	East Rancier Road	Killeen	TX	46.7 mi
5	North Side	Copperas Cove	TX	47.9 mi

Base	Distance
Camp Mabry	11 mi.
Fort Hood	46.9 mi.

Lake Travis STEM Academy

Cedar Park, TX 78613

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Lake Travis STEM Academy

Cedar Park, TX 78613

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